Elapsed-time indicator

ABSTRACT

The indicator has a casing carrying two plates mounting the gear train, motor assembly, escapement, and counter. The motor assembly includes a solenoid which impulses a flywheel to wind a mainspring which advances the counter through the gear train at a rate determined by the escapement. The plates and gearing are formed of plastic and this assembly is shock mounted in the plastic casing. Features hereof include a helical mainspring having opposite ends engaging between the baseplate and the flywheel respectively, direct pivotal mounting of the movement shafts in the plates without jewel bearings, a dynamically balanced armature for the motor assembly, coil spring leads from the motor assembly to the terminals on the plastic casing, and the application of ultrasonic welding techniques to the assembly.

States tent [151 3,635,01 1 Pindell, Jr. et al. 51 Jan. 18, 1972 [54]ELAPSED-TIME INDICATOR 3,418,802 12/1968 Little et a1. ..58/23 [72]Inventors: Stumrt M. Plndell, Jr.; Donald J. Johnson;

Robert E. Fickes, all of Lancaster, Pa; Malcolm R. Perry, Mooresville,N.C.; Wayne K. Radcliffe, Lancaster, Pa.

[73] Assignee: Datcon Instrument Company, Lancaster,

221 Filed: Jan. 14, 1970 [21] Appl. No.: 2,899

[52] US. Cl. ..58/41 A, 58/145 [51] Int. Cl. ..G04c 1/04, G04b 5/04 [58]FleldofSearch ..58/40,41,41A,53, 145,140, 58/28, 28 A, 28 B, 28 D, 107

[56] References Cited UNITED STATES PATENTS 2,873,572 2/1959 Gibbs eta1. ..58/41 A 3,011,305 12/1961 Jensen 3,221,12011/1965 Mooneyetal...310/25X Primary Examiner-Richard B. Wilkinson Assistant Examiner-EdithC. Simmons Attorney-Le Blane & Shur [5 7] ABSTRACT v bearings, adynamically balanced armature for the motor assembly, coil spring leadsfrom the motor assembly to the terminals on the plastic casing, and theapplication of ultrasonic welding techniques to the assembly.

27 Claims, 19 Drawing Figures mmmlm SHEET 1 [IF 6 INVENTORS STUART M.PINDELLJR DONALD J, JOHNSON MALCOLM R. PERRY WAYNE K4 RADCLIFFE ROBERTE. FICKES ATTORNEYS PATENTED m1 8mg SHEET 3 [IF 6 FIG. 3

FIG. l8-

PATENTED mu 8 m2- SHEET 0F 6 ARMATURE MOTOR FRAME MOTOR COIL COIL.SPRING TERMINAL FLYWHEEL MAIN SPRING SHUNT STRIP EYELET COIL SPRINGTERMINAL FIG. l9

ELAPSED-TIME INDICATOR The present invention relates to an elapsed-timeindicator and particularly relates to an improved electrically ormechanically actuated running time indicator particularly for use withintermittently operated equipment, machinery or the like to indicateaggregate running time.

Elapsed or running time indicators are most often employed withequipment or machinery which is intermittently operated where it isdesirable to ascertain the accumulated time of actual operation. Forexample, it is often desirable to determine the total time that aperiodically operated engine, i.e., an automobile engine, has beenrunning, for example, for leasing purposes, maintenance scheduling andthe like. The total time that machinery and the like is actually in useplays a direct role in many aspects of intermittently operated equipmentutilization.

Prior elapsed-time indicators have employed an oscillating balance andescapement of the type used in watchor deck type movements to constrainthe rundown of a mainspring driving an output shaft which, in turn,operates a running time indicator or counter. Devices of this type haveemployed a motor assembly including a solenoid operable to move anarmature which impulses a flywheel which, in turn, winds the mainspring.The mainspring drives an output shaft through a gear train under theconstraint of the escapement. After a predetermined rundown of themainspring, a pair of contacts are closed to energize the solenoid andagain impulse the flywheel thereby rewinding the main spring. In theseknown indicators, this sequential action is repeated for so long asenergy is applied to the solenoid.

Prior devices of this type, however, have many inherent disadvantagesamong which are the relatively large number of parts which must beformed, machined, assembled, etc., to form the indicator, the relativelyhigh cost of the indicator due to such large number of parts and theskilled labor required for their assembly, uncertain reliability, theirinability for adaptation to certain environments, their relativelyinefficient motor assemblies, the lack of capability for readyconversion between electrical and mechanical input thereby limitingtheir use, and inordinate shock and vibration sensitivity.

The present invention provides an improved elapsed-time indicator whichminimizes or eliminates the above discussed and other shortcomings ofprior indicators of this type and provides various advantages inconstruction, mode of operation, and result over prior elapsed-timeindicators. Generally, the present invention provides an elapsed-timeindicator having a pair of spaced plates mounting a clockwork movementincluding a gear train and escapement therebetween. Where an electricalinput is provided, an electromagnet and counter are mounted on abaseplate. The electromagnet may be electrically connected, for example,to the ignition circuit or other circuit of the associated machine orthe like, which circuit is indicative of the running time thereof, Aflywheel, which forms a part of the electrical circuit through theindicator, lies in electrical contact with and is impulsed by thearmature of the electromagnet to break the electrical contact and towind a helical mainspring, the latter having opposite ends connected tothe flywheel and the baseplate. The run down of the mainspring drivesthe flywheel shaft through a one-way clutch arrangement and also drivesa worm gear connected to the counter. The run down of the mainspring isunder the control of the escapement through the gear train. When themainspring is fully run down, the flywheel completes an electricalcircuit with the electromagnet and thereby the latter is energized toimpulse the armature and hence the flywheel to again rewind themainspring whereupon the timing cycle is repeated and continued for suchtime as electrical energy is applied to the terminals of the indicator.The foregoing clockwork and counter subassembly is shock mounted in aplastic casing and has coil lead springs from the electromagnet to theterminals on the rear face of the casing. Where a mechanical input isrequired, one of the shafts of the movement is extended externally ofthe casing and adapted for connection with the mechanical drive, themotor assembly being omitted in this form. An idler gear may also beprovided in the movement whereby, in the mechanical version, eitherdirection of rotation of the mechanical input can be accommodated.

It is a significant feature hereof that the present indicator is formedof a minimum number of parts whereby the cost and labor of producing thesame has been significantly reduced in comparison with prior indicatorsof this type. For example, whereas I 17 parts were required to form anelapsed time indicator of the type identified as Model No. 571constructed by the Hamilton Watch Company, the present indicatorrequires 54 parts. A significant factor in accomplishing this partsreduction without sacrificing reliability and accuracy and in factincreasing the reliability and accuracy of the present indicator ascompared with prior indicators, has been the use of plasu'c materialsand plastic welding techniques. Particularly, the functions per partratio have been substantially increased. To our knowledge, a verysubstantial proportion of the parts forming prior indicators of thistype have been formed of metal and this requires machining and othermetal fabricating operations in order to maintain the requiredtolerances, fit, etc. The formation of certain of these and other partsof a plastic material was not heretofore believed feasible since it wasnot considered that the finished parts when assembled would have thedegree of precision necessary to perform their intended functions, longwear, life, and other properties characteristic of clockwork mechanisms.Problems in the use of plastics, for example, mold shrinkage,dimensional and life stability, moisture resistance, lubrication ofrelatively movable plastics parts and the like have long mitigatedagainst the use of plastic parts in a clockwork mechanism. It has beenfound, however, that these and other problems can be overcome and theaccuracy and reliability of the present indicator are considerablyenhanced with the use of carefully designed plastic parts and novelplastic fabricating techniques. For example, the two baseplates formingthe support structure for the counter, solenoid and movement are eachintegrally molded of a plastic material consisting of a glass fiberfilled nylon with a natural lubricant added, typically molybdenumdisulphide. One of the plates is molded to provide the pillar posts, thesupport brackets for the counter, and openings for the shafts of themovement with the marginal portions about the openings I providingintegrally formed bearing surfaces for such shafts. These functionalparts heretofore required the formation of separate, usually metal,parts, and it will be seen that these parts and their functions, by thepresent invention, have been incorporated into a single, readily formedplastic part. Certain of the gear wheels and shafts of the clockworktrain are also integrally molded thus further increasing the functionper part ratio. It is a further significant feature hereof thatconventional jewel bearings mounting the shaft ends of the movement maybe eliminated. Generally, annular shoulders are formed on the shaft endsand bear on the marginal portions about the openings in the plasticplates. The plastic plate and shafts are self-lubricating, and it hasbeen found that they are reliable and accurate within accepted limitsand have a significantly longer wear life than comparable metal to metalbearings.

Another aspect of the present invention includes a dynamically balancedand positively locked armature mounted on the electromagnet in a mannerproviding long wear life and consistent performance throughout the lifeof the motor. Also, the armature is carried by the motor frame in amanner as to positively lock the arm to the motor assembly therebyresisting shock and vibration as well as to increase the metal to metalinterface whereby the magnetic reluctance is minimized. Notwithstandingsuch positive lock, the return spring for the armature is extremelylight and has high resistance to vibration and chatter. Other featuresof the motor assembly provide a self supporting coil wound directly onthe core, the adjacent wire strands being bonded one to the other. Thecoil size is reduced as compared with electromagnets previously employedin indicators of this type, and this results in a reduction in thelength of the magnetic path, as well as providing for lighter mountings.A high coil resistance is provided to reduce the contact current wherebythe life of the electrical contacts is substantially increased.Moreover, a wide voltage range can be impressed on the coil therebyadapting the indicator for use with a wide variety of machines operableat different voltages.

In another aspect hereof, the indicator casing and the movement areformed to permit ease of assembly, provide for shock mounting of themovement in the casing, and permit ready electrical connection betweenthe leads to the electromagnet and the terminals mounted on the rearface of the casing. To this end, a substantially cylindrical one-pieceintegrally molded cup-shaped casing having an integrally molded terminalblock formed on its rear face is provided. A pair of integrally formedlocating pins project inwardly from the rear face of the casing. A pairof openings are formed in the second plate of the movement and a pair ofcoil lead springs connected to the motor assembly extend through thesecond plate. Grommets are provided about the locator pins and when themovement is positioned within the case, an annular grommet seats thefirst plate of the movement against a corresponding shoulder in thecasing thus shock insulating the movement from the casing. The locatorpins engage through the second plate openings to laterally orient themovement relative to the casing and thereby locate the ends of the leadsprings against the terminals at the rear face of the casing. As will beappreciated, the movement can thus be simply dropped into the casingover the locating pins. A bezel is then applied about the opposite endof the casing sealing the dial plate and crystal to the casing.

The assembly of the present indicator is further facilitated by theemployment of ultrasonic welding techniques whereby the plates of themovement can be welded one to the other with the gear train therebetweenand the bezel ultrasonically welded to the casing after the movement hasbeen inserted therein. To this end, dimples are formed on the ends ofthe integrally molded pillar posts of the baseplate. Slightly raisedcylindrical projections or energy pads are formed on one side of theother plate adjacent its connection with the ends of the pillar posts.With spacer blocks interposed between the plates to maintain apredetermined spacing therebetween, an ultrasonic horn is brought tobear against the opposite side of the one plate in alignment with theraised projections or energy pads on the one plate. When ultrasonicenergy is applied, the plastic material at the ends of the posts melts,starting with the dimpled portions thereof. When energy to theultrasonic horn is interrupted, the melted plastic hardens and welds theone plate to the other. By this method, the normal connecting meansusually providing for connecting the plates of typical clock movementsand which include numerous parts requiring machining, assembly, etc.,are entirely eliminated. Moreover, after the movement is inserted intothe casing, the bezel is then applied about the open end of the casingand ultrasonically sealed thereto to provide a watertight,high-integrity casmg.

As can be seen by the foregoing brief discussion of certain of thesalient features of the present elapsed time indicator, the use ofplastics and plastic welding techniques are widely used throughout themanufacture and assembly of the indicator. This substantially reducesthe number of parts required as well as facilitating their formation andassembly. By integrally molding many of the parts previously formedseparately and by rearranging and adding and/or subtracting certainparts and their functions, the function per part ratio is significantlyincreased in relation to the almost l-to-l function per part ratio foundin previous indicators of this type.

Accordingly, primary and other objects of the present invention are toprovide a low-cost, reliable, and readily and easily assembledelapsed-time indicator: wherein the use of plastics and plastic weldingtechniques are used extensively throughout the formation of theindicator parts and their assembly whereby a substantial reduction inthe number of parts and an increase in the function per part ratio iseffected; wherein jewel and other metal to metal bearings in themovement are entirely eliminated through the use of a gear train formedessentially of plastic materials or where jewel bearing may beselectively employed as desired, wherein certain wheels and pinions ofthe gear train are integrally molded of plastic; having a pair of plateswhich mount both the gear train and escapement as well as the counterand motor assembly including the electromagnet, flywheel and mainspringwhen an electrical input is provided; wherein the supports carried bythe baseplates for mounting the movement, counter, motor assembly andthe like are integrally molded therewith whereby such supports areprovided solely by two plates; wherein a plastic molded casing havingintegrally molded electrical terminals and movement aligning pins isprovided; wherein the movement can be readily and easily assembled intothe casing with the terminals making electrical contact with the motorassembly of the movement through a pair of helical springs; wherein themovement is shock mounted within the casing; wherein the dial plate andcrystal are clamped to the casing and the movement retained in thecasing by a bezel ultrasonically welded to the casing; and wherein theresulting indicator is compact having minimum lateral and depthdimensions.

Still other objects of the present invention are to provide a motorassembly for timers and the like including a solenoid with a dynamicallybalanced armature; an armature which is positively locked to the baseframe of the solenoid in a manner providing consistent performance andlong wear life; a light return spring for the armature affordingvibration and chattering resistant characteristics; and a more effectivemagnetic path through the solenoid.

Related objects of the present invention are to provide a unique bearingstructure for shafts in timers and other horological devices whereinconventional jewels, jewel mountings and externally applied lubricationof the bearings as well as the labor involved in assembling andlubricating such jewelled bearings may be entirely eliminated; whereinshafts and bearing plates are formed of a self lubricating plasticmaterial; wherein the wear life and reliability of the present bearingstructure is substantially increased in comparison with conventionalbearings in like devices; and wherein the bearing structure hasincreased shock and vibration resistant properties as well as acapability of operation under extreme environmental conditions.

These and further objects and advantages of the invention will be moreapparent upon reference to the following specification, claims andappended drawings wherein:

FIG. 1 is an exploded perspective view of the various parts comprisingthe elapsed-time indicator of the present invention with certain of theparts being illustrated in cross section;

FIG. 2 is a plan view of the counter and motor subassemblies hereofmounted on the upper plate of the movement;

FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view thereof taken about on lines 3-3 inFIG. 2;

FIG. 4 is a plan view of the movement subassembly looking downwardly onthe lower mounting plate in FIG. 1;

FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view thereof taken generally about on line55 in FIG. 4;

FIG. 6 is a plan view of the motor subassembly hereof;

FIG. 7 is a plan view of the motor mount thereof;

FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view thereof taken about on line 8-8 in FIG.7;

FIG. 9 is an enlarged fragmentary cross-sectional view of the motorsubassembly illustrating the pivotal joint between the armature and themotor frame;

FIG. 10 is a plan view of a blank for the armature;

FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of the motor in the motor subassemblytaken generally about on line 1lll in FIG. 6;

FIG. 12 is a plan view of the rear face of the elapsed-time indicator;

FIG. 13 is an enlarged cross-sectional view thereof taken generallyabout on line l3l3 in FIG. 12;

FIG. I4 is a plan view of the elapsed-time indicator;

FIG. 15 is a side elevational view of the movement mounting plates priorto assembly;

FIG. 16 is a fragmentary cross-sectional view thereof illustrating theirassembly by application of an ultrasonic horn and spacer block;

FIG. 17 is a fragmentary cross-sectional view of the finally assembledbaseplates,

FIG. 18 is a fragmentary plan view of the lower mounting plateillustrating the bench marks used for visual estimation of the amplitudeof the balance wheel excursion during assembly of the indicator; and

FIG. 19 is a schematic illustration of the electrical circuit for theelapsed-time indicator hereof.

Referring now to the drawings, there is shown in FIG. 1, an elapsed-timeindicator generally indicated at comprising a cylindrical casing 12, awatchor clock-type movement carried between a pair of movement platesand generally indicated at 14, a counter 16 driven by movement 14, amotor assembly 18 utilized when an electricalinput is provided theindicator and a bezel and dial assembly 20. To assist in anunderstanding of these various parts and their assembly which aredescribed in detail hereinafter, a generalized description of theoverall operation of the indicator is now provided.

Where the aggregate running time of I a periodically operated machine isto be calculated and the machine has an electrical circuit which isindicative of its running time, i.e., an ignition circuit, the indicatoris connected in the machine circuit at a pair of terminals 22 disposedon the rear face of casing 12. The running time electrical signalenergizes a solenoid 24 via a coil spring lead 26 and the armature 28 ofsolenoid 24 is impulsed to drive a flywheel 30 against the bias of andthereby wind a mainspring 32 which is connected to flywheel 30. Theshaft mounting the fly wheel also mounts a wheel of the clockworkmovement. This shaft is coupled to the flywheel through a one-way clutcharrangement and is rotated by the mainspring in a timed fashion througha gear train and escapement assembly to be described. Another shaft iscoupled to the movement 14 and mounts a worm gear in driving engagementwith counter 16. When mainspring 32 runs down and returns flywheel 30into contact with armature 28, the electrical circuit is again completedand the armature is impulsed to rotate flywheel 30 against the bias ofand to again wind mainspring 32. This operation is repeated for so longas the electrical signal indicative of the running time of theassociated machine is applied to the indicator and the aggregate runningtime is digitally displayed by counter 16. The foregoing descriptionwith respect to the lead in terminals, solenoid flywheel and armatureassembly is applicable where an electrical input is provided theindicator and these parts are omitted when the indicator is to beemployed with a mechanical rotary input. In the latter instance, thefourth wheel of the movement is replaced with a wheel having an extendedshaft attachable to the mechanical rotary input of nearly constanttorque. In this manner, there is a direct mechanical drive to themovement and the counter is advanced through the worm gear similarly asbefore. The movement can be adjusted to accommodate a rotary mechanicalinput in either direction. A detailed description of the various partsand assemblies will now be provided.

Referring now to FIGS. 1 and 3 there is illustrated a pair of plates 36and 38 which mount movement 14 and counter 16 as well as the motorassembly 18 when an electrical input is anticipated. Baseplate 36comprises a circular disc carrying on one face a pair of upstandingbrackets 40 for mounting counter 16. Brackets 40 are suitably formed tocarry the shaft 41 mounting the graduated dials 42 of counter 16: One ofthe brackets 40 is extended to mount one end of a second counter shaft43 while a separate bracket 44 is fonned on plate 36 to mount theopposite end of shaft 43. On the opposite face of baseplate 36, thereare provided a plurality of laterally spaced pillar posts 45, preferablyfive in number, having dimples 46 formed on their ends for reasonsdescribed hereinafter. A plurality of slightly raised cylindrical bosses47 are formed on the upper face of bottom plate 38 at positions inalignment with pillar posts 45 whereby, when plates 36 and 38 aresecured one to the other, pillar posts 45 are joined to the plate 38 ina manner to be set forth thereby retaining the movement 14 betweenplates 36 and 38. Suitable openings are formed through each of plates 36and 38 for receiving the corresponding ends of the shafts forming aportion of movement 14.

It is a particular feature of the present invention that the foregoingstructure comprising brackets 40 and 44, posts 45, dimples 46, bosses 47and the openings for the shafts of the movement is formed integrallywith the associated plate. Particularly, the plates are integrallymolded of plastic with the brackets 40 and 44, posts 45, dimples 46, andbosses 47 integrally molded with the associated plates. The plasticmaterial may comprise, for example, 30 percent short glass fiber filled5 percent molybdenum disulphide filled nylon. In prior indicators ofthis type, the counter brackets and pillar posts were formed separatelyand required separate assembly thereof to the respective plates, suchformation and assembly being entirely eliminated herein by use ofintegrally molded movement plates without loss of function, strength,and reliability of such parts.

The movement 14 will now be described. With reference to FIGS. 4 and 5,there is illustrated a balance wheel 50, a suitable hairspring 51, and asafety roller 52 carried by a balance wheel shaft 53. l-Iairspring 51 isconnected at one end to a stud 54 staked to plate 36 (or to a slottedpost raised from plate 36, not shown) and is connected at its oppositeend to a collet 55 carried on shaft 53. A roller pin 56 is carried bybalance wheel 50 and periodically engages within the forked end of apallet 57 carried on a pallet shaft 58. A guard pin 59 is staked topallet 57 and cooperates with roller 52 in the usual fashion to insurethat the pin 56 and pallet 57 are always in proper relative position. Apair of arms 60 is carried by pallet 57 on opposite sides of its pivotalaxis and the arms alternately engage the teeth on an escape wheel 62carried on an escape wheel shaft 64. Shaft 64 also carries an escapewheel pinion 66 which lies in mesh with the fifth wheel 68 of movement14, wheel 68 being carried on a shaft 70. Shaft 70 also carries a fifthwheel pinion 72 which lies in mesh with the fourth wheel 74 mounted on ashaft 76. Shaft 76 carries a fourth wheel pinion 78 which lies in meshwith a third wheel 80 carried on a shaft 82. Wheel 80 lies in mesh withgear teeth 83 formed on a shaft 84 which extends through baseplate 36and carries worm 34 on its upper end.

In a manner to be explained in detail hereinafter and wherein anelectrical input is provided, mainspring 32 imparts a torque to thethird shaft 82, for example, in the clockwise direction as seen in FIG.4. The rotation of third wheel 80, however, is restrained by theescapement through the fourth and fifth wheels 74 and 68 respectively.The mainspring thus also imparts a torque to the balance-hairspringassembly of the escapement to release the movement and provide a timedrotation of third wheel 80 under the bias of mainspring 32. The secondwheel shaft 84 in mesh with wheel 80 thus rotates in a timed fashion.

Particularly, the torque imparted to the escape wheel 62 through wheels68 and 74 from wheel 80 pivots pallet 57 about its axis 58, which, inturn, initially impulses the balance wheel 50 in, for example, acounterclockwise direction as seen in FIG. 4. Escape wheel 62 is alsounlocked and rotates until locked by the upper pallet arm 60 as seen inFIG. 4. The balance wheel 50 continues on its counterclockwiseoscillatory excursion until the hairspring is wound. The balance wheel50 then returns in the opposite direction and roller pin 56 engages inthe forked end of pallet 57 to impulse the pallet in a counterclockwisedirection thereby releasing escape wheel 62. Escape wheel 62 rotates apredetermined distance until locked by the lower pallet arm 60 as seenin FIG. 4. Balance wheel 50 continues on its clockwise oscillatoryexcursion with pin 56 being impulsed from within the forked end ofpallet 57. Upon completing its clockwise oscillatory excursion andwinding the hairspring, the balance wheel returns in the oppositecounterclockwise direction to engage the pin 56in the forked end ofpallet 57 whereby the escape wheel 62 is again released and stepped in acounterclockwise direction until locked by the upper arm 60. So long astorque is applied to escape wheel 62 via wheels 68, 74, and 80 andassociated pinions, the escapement operation continues and the escapewheel rotates unidirectionally thereby permitting continued andunidirectional rotation of third wheel 80 in a timed fashion. With staff84 lying in meshing engagement with third wheel 80, staff 84 is drivenin rotation substantially continuously as long as torque is applied tothe third arbor 82 by mainspring 32.

As seen in FIGS. 2 and 3, counter 16 is mounted between brackets 40 andcomprises the counter wheels 42 which bear timekeeping indicia abouttheir peripheries in the usual fashion. The counter wheels 42 are drivenby a counter wheel 92 which lies in mesh with worm gear 34 carried onthe end of the second wheel staff 84. Thus, continued rotation of thestafi" 84 drives counter wheel 92 which, in turn, operates wheels 42which rotate in a timed fashion to provide a digital aggregate runningtime readout through dial assembly 20.

It is an important feature hereof that certain of the parts thusdescribed comprising the movement 14 are molded of a plastic material.For example, each of the shafts 70 and 76, as well as their associatedmovement wheels, are each integrally molded of plastic.

It is another important feature hereof that jeweled bearings aspreviously employed in indicators of this type may be entirelyeliminated. To accomplish this, the ends of each of the various shaftsof the movement are stepped to provide a reduced diameter cylindricalend portion 86 (FIGS. 3 and 5) and enlarged diarnetrical portions 87forming annular shoulders 88 therebetween. To secure the shafts andtheir associated parts between plates 36 and 38, the reduced oppositeend portions 86 are inserted into aligned openings in plates 36 and 38with the annular shoulders 88 on the associated shafts bearing on faceportions of the plates about the openings. Opposite annular bearingsurfaces are thus formed. It will, of course, be appreciated that shafts82 and 84 extend through the plate 36 and are necessarily of greaterdiameter than the other shafts of the movement. Shafts 82 and 84 areprovided with a similar bearing arrangement with reduced and enlargeddiameter portions forming an annular shoulder providing the bearingsurface with plate 36. This unique bearing assembly thus eliminates theprecision jewels, additional mountings and assembly steps normallyrequired in prior clockwork or watch movements. Moreover, externallubrication required in previous clockwork or watch bearing structuresis entirely eliminated by the foregoing bearing structure as the plasticmaterials from which the shafts and plates are formed isselflubricating.

Where an electrical input is provided, third wheel 80 provides, in amanner to be described, the input torque to the escapement and counterdrive shaft 84. However, when a mechanical input is provided, the shaft76 is replaced by an elongated shaft as indicated by the dashed lines101 in FIG. 5 for connection with the mechanical input, and it will beseen that the movement 14 and counter shaft 84 will operate aspreviously described provided a counterclockwise mechanical input torqueoperates on elongated shaft 101. If a clockwise mechanical input torqueis provided, the indicator is modified by removing the fifth pinion 72,inserting a fifth idler gear 100 having a pinion 102 in mesh with wheel74 and a wheel 104 in mesh with wheel 68, and providing a counter driveshaft 84 having a reversely threaded worm 34 at its upper end. Thus,with a clockwise input, idler gear 100 and its associated pinion 102convert this reverse or clockwise directional input such that the fifthwheel 68 and escape wheel 62 rotate in directions similarly as describedpreviously. In other words, the escapement must be torqued in onedirection only, and the above modification to the movement gears theescapement to receive a torque in its operable direction. With themovement modified to receive a clockwise input, the third wheel 80rotates counterclockwise and drives the counter drive shaft 84 in aclockwise direction. A reversely threaded worm would then rotate thecounter drive wheel 94 in the same direction as previously.

Referring now to FIGS. 15-17, the plates 36 and 38 are secured one tothe other with the movement retained therebetween through the uniquecooperation between formation of the pillar posts 45, dimples 46 andbosses 47 upon alignment of the plates and application of an ultrasonicwelding technique. To this end, and after the movement shafts arealigned and inserted into the corresponding openings in the plates, apair of spacer blocks 106 are inserted between the plates, preferably atdiametrically opposite positions about plates 36 and 38. The end of aresonant or ultrasonic horn 108 is then brought to bear against bosses47. When electrical energy is applied to a sonic converter, the horn iscaused to vibrate. The vibrations are transmitted through the bosses(energy pads) 47 and the plate to the dimples 46 and the intensemovement between the dimple and plate melts the dimple and the plasticbegins to flow. The bottom plate is progressively moved toward thebaseplate with the ultrasonic energy being continuously applied untilthe bottom plate bears against the spacer blocks 104 at which time theplates are located relative to each other in predetermined accuratespaced relation. The ultrasonic horn is then removed and the meltedplastic hardens to weld the pillar post to the baseplate thereby formingintegral movement plates. Each of the pillar post to plate joints aresimultaneously formed by a single horn which contacts each of the energypads during the welding operation. In this manner, the movement isretained between the plates without employing and assembling the variousparts normally required to secure a movement in place.

Where an electrical input is provided the present indicator. motorassembly 18 is mounted to the outer face of baseplate 36 and applies asubstantially continuous torque to third wheel during the time period inwhich and for so long as the electrical signal is applied to theindicator. As seen in FIGS. 6-8, the motor assembly 18 comprises amounting plate 110 having lugs 112 and 114 projecting from opposite endswith lug 114 being undercut as at 116 for purposes as will become clear.Mounting plate 110 is formed of a plastic material, preferably thematerial hereinbefore specified, and an upstanding post 118 is providedadjacent one edge of plate 110. A pair of stepped openings 120 and 122are formed through mounting plate 110 and receive stake portions of amotor frame 124. Motor frame 124 comprises a side portion 126, an endportion 128 forming a right angle with side portion 126, and a curvedopposite end extension 127 having slotted edges 131. Frame 124 ispreferably formed of a ferrous material such as nickel plated ingotiron. A T-slot 127, illustrated in FIG. 11, is formed in the end of sideportion 126. An opening 129 is formed through end portion 128 of frame124 and receives a reduced diameter end portion of a magnetic core 130,frame end portion 128 providing the sole support for the core 130. Core130 is substantially coextensive with side portion 126 of frame 124 andcarries a coil 132, one end of which is turned about post 118 and woundabout and preferably soldered to the inner end of coil lead spring 26.The other end of coil 132 connects with frame 124 and is preferablysoldered in a slot formed along an edge of side frame portion 126 asindicated at 133.

An armature 134 is pivotally mounted in the T-slot 127 of frame 124, andcomprises, as seen in FIGS. 6 and 10, a substantially triangularlyshaped base 136 carrying an arm section 138 bent intermediate its endportions to form an included obtuse angle with base 136. An electricalcontact 137 is provided on the outer end of arm 138. The base 136 ofannature 134 is pivotally received within T-slot 127. Shoulders 142(FIG. 10) are provided on the base 136 and butt the inside face of sideframe portion 124 adjacent T-slot 127 when the armature and frame areassembled. A slotted enlargement 140 is formed on the end of thearmature base portion 136 for purposes as will become clear.

Armature 134 is formed in a manner such that it is dynamically balancedabout an axis coincident with its pivotal axis in frame portion 124.Thus, the special orientation of the indicator does not affect theposition of the armature relative to the core.

It is a particular feature hereof that an efficient primary magneticpath through the hinge area of the armature and frame is provided.Specifically and with reference to FIG. v9, the opening through the topof the T-slot and which pivotally receives armature 134 is formed toprovide a large area of metal contact when the armature is both spacedfrom and near core 130 (a residual disc 135 prevents contact and hencesticking between the armature and core). Opposite halves of the walls ofthe opening in the T-slot are tapered as at 145 such that they liesubstantially parallel with the base 136 of ar' mature 134 when thelatter is spaced from core 130 as illustrated. The other opposite wallhalves 147 are formed to lie substantially parallel to the base 136 ofthe armature when it lies in the illustrated position. These angled wallportions thus engage the armature in a manner providing greater metal tometal contact at the hinge interface in each position of the armature.The reluctance of the magnetic path in the hinge area is thus reducedthereby providing an efficient primary magnetic path in both the openand closed position of the solenoid.

A coil spring 150 is connected at one end to the slotted enlargement 140or 134 with the opposite end being connected to the slotted extension127 of frame 124. The spring 150 is preferably formed of phosphor bronzewire. Since the armature 134 is dynamically balanced, spring 150 is verylight yet is sufficiently strong as to preclude chattering. Spring 150also locks the armature 134 to frame 124 by biasing shoulders 142against the inside face of frame 124.

Referring now to FIGS. 2 and 3 there is illustrated a flywheel 30 which,in conjunction with the solenoid, imparts a torque to third wheel 82 solong as electrical energy is applied to motor assembly 18. Flywheel 30is formed of an electrically conductive material and comprises a hub 160carrying a pair of diametrically outwardly extending anns, the outerends of which carry suitably balanced weights 162 and 164. The weightedarm end 164 also carries an electrical contact 144. As seen in FIG. 3third arbor 82 extends through baseplate 36 and through the bore inflywheel hub 160, hub 160 and arbor 82 being rotatable relative to oneanother. The outer end of arbor 82 is splined and is received within thebore of a drive hub 166 superposed over flywheel hub 160. A clutchspring 168 encompasses flywheel hub 160 and drive hub 166 wherebyflywheel 30 is free to rotate in one direction and is clutched to drivehub 166 for combined rotation with the flywheel in the oppositedirection.

A mainspring 32 is provided and comprises a helical spring disposedabout a reduced-diameter lower base portion of flywheel hub 160. One endof the spring projects from the helical windings and extends to underliethe end lug 114 of motor mounting plate 110 butting the eyelet 161exposed by the undercut shoulder 116 thereof. The opposite end of thehelically wound mainspring 32 extends adjacent the underside of theflywheel associated with weight 164 and is inserted within a grooveformed in the underface of weighted end 164 (FIG.'2). For reasonshereinafter amplified, a flat shunt strip 153 having diametricallyenlarged centrally apertured ends 157 and 159 electrically connectsbetween flywheel 30 and an eyelet 161 which secures motor mounting plate110 to plate 36. Particularly, centrally apertured end 157 underlies theflywheel hub 160 about shaft 82 and centrally apertured end 159underlies lug 114 about eyelet 161. Flywheel hub 160 is thus incontinuous electrical contact with shunt strip 153.

Casing 12 (FIGS. 1214) comprises a cup-shaped cylindrical member havinga radially outwardly directed flange 200 and an axially extending rim201 about its open end forming an internal shoulder 202 on which isreceived the dial 204 and crystal 206 in a manner to be presently setforth. The base 208 of casing 12 carries a pair of inwardly directedlocating pins 210 over which are received suitable grommets 212 andwhich project within corresponding openings formed through bottom plate38 of the movement when assembled within the casing 12. A boss 214projects outwardly of the bottom portion 208 of casing 12 and mounts apair of terminals 22, 22a. Casing 12 is formed of a plastic material andthe terminals 22, 22a are integrally molded within boss 214. A pair ofopenings 216 are formed in boss 214 exposing the inner ends of terminals22, 22a within casing 12. An annular shoulder 218 is also formedintermediate the ends of casing 12.

To dispose the movement 14, counter 16 and motor assembly 18 withincasing 12, a mounting ring 220 having an in ternal slot formation 222 isdisposed about baseplate 36. This assembly is then dropped within case12 with coil spring lead line 26, 26a engaging through correspondingaligned openings in the base and bottom plates 36 and 38 respectively,the lower ends of the coil spring lead lines 26, 260 being disposedwithin openings 216 and bearing against the respective inner ends ofterminals 22, 22a. The corresponding openings in the bottom plate 38 areslipped over the grommet carrying locating pins 210 and, in thisconfiguration as seen in FIG. 13, the mounting ring 220 bears onshoulder 218. The grommets 210 in mounting ring 220 provide a shockmounting for the movement within casing 12 and, when the end of the coilspring lead line 26 is electrically connected with one of the motor coil132, it will be seen that good electrical contact is made whileretaining a shock mounting of the movement within the case 12.

To retain the movement, counter, and motor assembly within casing 12, acylindrical sleeve 224 is disposed concentrically within casing 12 andbears against the outer side of mounting ring 220. The opposite end ofsleeve 224 has an outer annular cutout portion 226 and this, togetherwith the annular shoulder 202 formed on the end of casing 12, receivesthe marginal flange portion 228 of dial 204. Dial 204 has a pair ofdiametrical slots, not shown, which register with a pair ofcorresponding lugs, also not shown, formed on casing 12 such that a slot230 opening through dial 204 is disposed in overlying registry withcounter 16 such that the numerals on the counter wheels may be readthrough the front face of the dial. A gasket 232 is disposed aboutflange 228 of dial plate 204 and crystal 206 overlies gasket 232.

A bezel 236 having a stepped flange portion 238 is disposed about theouter end of casing 12 with the stepped flange portion bearing againstthe marginal portions of crystal 206 resiliently clamping it togetherwith the dial 204 against the annular shoulder 202 of casing 12 and thecutout portion 226 of sleeve 224. The bezel 236 and casing 12 are formedof a plastic material and, to facilitate securement of bezel 236 tocasing 12, an annular head 231 is provided on the annular face of rim201. An ultrasonic welding horn, not shown, is then preferably appliedto bezel 236 about its periphery whereby the head 23] is first melted tostart the welding process with the portion 238 of bezel 236 beingfinally ultrasonically welded about the face of rim 201. The weld, to alimited extent, also occurs between the bezel and casing along the sideof rim 201. In this manner it will be seen that the indicator hassubstantial air and water tight integrity while simultaneously providinga securement between the bezel and casing eliminates a large number ofparts, i.e., nuts and the like, and various manufacturing operationsheretofore employed to assemble an indicator of this type. It will ofcourse be appreciated that other types of bezel to casing connections.such as a threaded or detented connection, could be utilized.

Referring now to FIG. 19, there is schematically illustrated anelectrical circuit for the elapsed time indicator hereof havingterminals 22 and 22a adapted for connection in the electrical circuit ofa periodically operated machine, not shown. When the machine circuit isenergized, solenoid 24 is energized by an electrical circuit completedthrough coil spring 26, motor coil 132 attached at one end to coilspring 26, motor frame 124 connected to the opposite end of motor coil132, the armature 134 electrically connected through the pivotal jointthereof with the motor frame as previously described, shunt strip 153and mainspring 32 in parallel, eyelet 161, coil spring 26a and the otherterminal 22a. Energization of the solenoid pivots'armature 134 andimpulses the flywheel for rotation in a clockwise direction as seen inFIG. 2 from its normal position in contact with armature 134. Suchrotation by flywheel 30 winds mainspring 32 thereby biasing flywheel 30for rotation (counterclockwise) back to its normal position illustratedin FIG. 2. It will thus be appreciated that when the solenoid isactuated by the foregoing circuit, armature 134 pivots to strikeflywheel 30 with the latter rotating about and relative to third arbor82 and thereby winding mainspring 32. Simultaneously, electrical contactbetween the armature 134 and the flywheel is broken and the armaturereturns (counterclockwise as seen in FIG. 2) under the bias of spring150 to its normal position with base portion 136 thereof spaced from thesolenoid core. When flywheel 30 reaches the end of its clockwiseoscillatory excursion, mainspring 32 is fully wound and drives flywheel30 in the opposite counterclockwise direction. The clutch spring 168couples the flywheel 30 to the drive hub 166 as the flywheel is returnedto its rest position illustrated in FIG. 2 under the bias of mainspring32.

Rotational movement of the flywheel back to its rest position, however,is constrained through the movement and escapement and to the secondwheel staff 84 driving the counter wheel 92 through worm 34. Aspreviously described, rotation of wheel 80 on arbor 82 is controlled bythe escapement, the timed tooth by tooth release of unidirectionallyrotating escape wheel 62 under the bias of the wheel 80 through the geartrain restraining mainspring 32 from immediate rundown. The escapementis self-starting in response to an input torque applied through the geartrain and this, as well as the details of the operation of theescapement, are fully set forth in copending application Ser. No.774,123, filed Nov. 7, 1968, of common assignee herewith, the disclosureof which application is incorporated herein by reference in itsentirety. When the flywheel again engages contact 137 on armature 134,.the solenoid is energized via the foregoing described circuit andarmature 134 again impulses flywheel 30 to wind mainspring 32. Theone-way clutch arrangement permits rotation of the flywheel whenimpulsed by armature 134 without rotating third arbor 82. Thus asubstantially uninterrupted and constant torque is applied to thirdarbor 82 and to the counter driving mechanism 34 and 92 for so long aselectrical current is applied to the solenoid via the terminals 22 and22a.

The elapsed time indicator hereof is also adapted for use with a rotarymechanical input. In this event, the motor assembly 18 is omitted andthe fourth wheel shaft 76 is replaced by a shaft 101 which is elongatedand adapted to extend through a suitable opening formed through the rearwall of the casing. Any suitable connection between the rotary input andthe shaft 101 may be provided and may include a one-way clutcharrangement such as that described and illustrated in copendingapplication Ser. No. 670,87] filed Sept. 27, 1967 of common assigneeherewith. The action of the movement and counter will be similar aspreviously described with the motive force for the movement and countercoming from the extended shaft 101 rather than the shaft 82 as in theembodiment employing an electrical input.

Note in FIG. 4 that the rotary mechanical movement must becounterclockwise in order that pallet 57 and escape wheel 62 maycooperate to provide unidirectional motion to escape wheel 62 in acounterclockwise direction. Should the mechanical rotary input, however,be in the opposite rotary direction, i.e., clockwise, as seen in FIG. 4,the fifth pinion 72 is removed and a fifth idler gear wheel 104 andpinion 102 are inserted, pinion 102 being in mesh with wheel 74 andwheel 104 being in mesh with wheel 68. Also, a reversely threaded wormreplaces the worm 34 on the drive for the counter. In this manner, theescapement runs in one direction for both electrical and mechanicalinputs regardless of the direction of the latter. Note also in FIGS. 2and 14 that the end face of the worm gear 32 is exposed through the dialface and may be marked with suitable indicia to provide a visualindication that the machine to which the indicator is attached isrunning.

As best seen in FIG. 18, a plurality of circumferentially spacedbenchmarks 252 are integrally formed along the inner face of plate 36 inunderlying relation to the peripheral rim of the balance wheel 50. Thebenchmarks are spaced adjacent the periphery of plate 36 and are equallyspaced one from the other about a quarter of the circumference of thebalance wheel. In this manner, a visual estimation of the amplitude ofthe balance wheel excursion can be obtained after assembly of themovement between the plates prior to insertion into casing 12. Theperformance of the movement can then be readily observed and theeffective length of the hairspring 51 can be readily changed by meansnot shown herein.

The invention may be embodied in other specific forms without departingfrom the spirit or essential characteristics thereof. The presentembodiments are therefore to be considered in all respects asillustrative and not restrictive, the scope of the invention beingindicated by the appended claims rather than by the foregoingdescription, and all changes which come within the means and range ofequivalency of the claims are therefore intended to be embraced therein.

What is claimed and desired to be secured by United States LettersPatent is:

1. An elapsed-time indicator comprising a housing, a pair of mountingplates in spaced substantially parallel relation one with the other andcarried within said housing, a timing device and drive assembly thereforincluding a movement comprised of a gear train and an escapementdisposed between said spaced plates, a flywheel pivotally mounted on theside of one of said plates remote from said movement, a counter mountedon said one plate side and coupled to said gear train to indicaterunning time, means coupling said flywheel to one of the gears of saidgear train for driving said gear train and said counter in response topivotal movement of said flywheel in one direction, said coupling meanspermitting relative rotation between said flywheel and said one gear inresponse to pivotal movement of said flywheel in the opposite direction,a mainspring connected at one end to said flywheel for rotationtherewith with the other end of said spring being fixed to saidindicator, a motor assembly mounted on said one plate side for rotatingsaid flywheel in the opposite direction to wind said spring, saidflywheel being pivotable in said one direction under the bias of saidspring to drive said one gear through said coupling and thereby drivesaid counter, said housing and said plates being cylindrical, means forshock mounting said plates within said housing including an annularshoulder formed internally about said housing, and annular cushionengaging about one of said plates and seating against said shoulder, andmeans retaining said cushion against said shoulder.

2. An indicator according to claim 1 wherein said motor assemblyincludes a solenoid, said housing having a rear wall, a pair ofterminals carried by said rear wall externally of said housing, andmeans forming an electrical circuit with said solenoid including a pairof springs extending within said housing and electrically connectingwith said terminals.

3. An elapsed-time indicator comprising a housing, a pair of mountingplates in spaced substantially parallel relation one with the other andcarried within said housing, a timing device and drive assembly thereforincluding a movement comprised of a gear train and an escapementdisposed between said spaced plates, a flywheel pivotally mounted on theside of one of said plates remote from said movement, a counter mountedon said one plate side and coupled to said gear train to indicaterunning time, means coupling said flywheel to one of the gears of saidgear train for driving said gear train and said counter in response topivotal movement of said flywheel in one direction, said coupling meanspermitting relative rotation between said flywheel and said one gear inresponse to pivotal movement of said flywheel in the opposite direction,a mainspring connected at one end to said flywheel for rotationtherewith with the other end of said spring being fixed to saidindicator, a motor assembly mounted on said one plate side for rotatingsaid flywheel in the opposite direction to wind said spring, saidflywheel being pivotable in said one direction 13. under the bias ofsaid spring to drive said one gear through said coupling and therebydrive said counter. and said mainspring being helical and having an axissubstantially coincident with the axis of rotation of said flywheel.

4. An indicator according to claim 3 wherein said flywheel includes ahub, said coupling means including a shaft, a drive member carried bysaid shaft for rotation therewith and a helically wound clutch springencompassing said hub and said drive member, said spring being arrangedsuch that the flywheel hub is drivingly connected with said drive memberto rotate said shaft in response to pivotal movement of said flywheel insaid opposite direction and is free for rotation relative to said drivemember in response to rotation of said flywheel in said one direction.

5. In a horological device having an escapement controlling time indiciathrough a gear train, a drive assembly subcombination thereforcomprising a gear in driving relation to said gear train, a pivotallymounted flywheel, means coupling said flywheel to said gear for drivingsaid gear in response to pivotal movement of said flywheel in onedirection, said coupling means permitting relative rotation between saidgear and said flywheel in response to pivotal movement of said flywheelin the opposite direction, a helical spring having an axis substantiallycoincident with the axis of rotation of said fly'wheel, one end of saidspring bearing against said flywheel for rotation therewith, the otherend of said spring bearing against said device, and means for pivotingsaid flywheel in the opposite direction to wind said spring, saidflywheel being pivoted in said one direction under the bias of saidspring to drive said gear through said coupling means.

6. In a horological device according to claim 5 including a shaftcarrying said gear, said flywheel being mounted for rotation about saidshaft, said spring being helically wound about said shaft.

7. In a horological device according to claim 6 wherein said flywheelincludes a hub, said coupling means including a drive member carried bysaid shaft for rotation therewith and a helically wound clutch springencompassing said hub and said drive member, said spring being arrangedsuch that the flywheel hub is drivingly connected with said drive memberto rotate said shaft in response to pivotal movement of said flywheel insaid opposite direction and is free for rotation relative to said drivemember in response to rotation of said flywheel in said one direction.

8. In a horological device according to claim 7 wherein said pivotingmeans includes an electromagnet having an armature pivotable to impulsesaid flywheel for rotary movement in said opposite direction.

9. In a horological device according to claim 7 in combination with saidtime indicia, said time indicia including a counter having a digitaldisplay and a drive gear, said gear train including a worm gear indriving relation to said counter drive gear.

10. An indicator according to claim 3 wherein said motor assemblyincludes a coil, a magnetizable core surrounded by said coil, meanssupporting one end of said core and including a frame portion projectingbeyond the opposite end of said core, said frame portion having at leastone slot, an armature pivotally mounted in said slot and having firstand second portions, said first portion lying on one side of said frameportion and overlying said opposite core end, said second armatureportion lying on the other side of said frame portion, means retainingsaid armature on said frame portion, one of the edge portions of saidslot lying substantially parallel to the axis of rotation of saidarmature in said frame portion having first and second angularly relatedsurfaces, the first surface of one edge portion extending from said oneframe side to a point intermediate the width of said frame portion, thesecond surface of said one edge portion extending from adjacent theintermediate point to the other side of said one frame portion, a springbiasing said armature into a first position with the sides of saidarmature extending through said slot lying substantially response toactuation of the electromagnet into a second position with the sidesthereof extending through said slot lying substantially flush with thesecond surface.

11. An indicator according to claim 10 wherein said retaining meansincludes a shoulder on said armature for bearing against said one frameportion side, said spring connecting between said armature first portionand said frame portion biasing said shoulder against said frame portion.

12. An indicator according to claim 10 wherein each of the opposite edgeportions of said slot has first and second angularly related surfaces,the first surface of the other edge portion extending from a pointintermediate the width of said frame portion to the other side of saidone frame portion, said first surfaces lying substantially parallel oneto the other, the second surface of the other edge portion extendingfrom adjacent the associated intermediate point to the one side of saidother frame portion, said second surfaces lying substantially parallelone to the other, the sides of said armature in said first positionlying substantially flush with said first surfaces and in said secondposition lying substantially flush with said second surfaces.

13. An indicator according to claim 11 wherein said frame portionincludes a substantially T-shaped slot opening outwardly thereof, saidarmature having an intermediate portion of reduced width for engagingwithin said slot, said intermediate annature portion defining a pair ofshoulders for hearing against said one frame portion side.

,14. In the movement of a horological device, a bearing assemblycomprising a pair of spaced mounting plates, a balance wheel including abalance staff terminating at one end in a reduced diameter stem formingan annular shoulder therewith, at least one of said plates having anopening to receive said stem with said shoulder bearing against theannular marginal portion of said one plate about said opening whereinsaid one plate is formed of a plastic material having a low coefficientof friction with a natural lubricant additive.

15. In a horological device having a gear train and escapement, amounting plate subassembly comprising a pair of mounting plates moldedof a plastic material, said plates having a plurality of openings formedtherein to receive the opposite ends of shafts forming parts of saidgear train and escapement, and a plurality of posts unitarily molded onone of said plates and projecting therefrom toward the other of saidplates, end portions of said posts being welded to the other of saidplates joining the latter one to the other with the gear train andescapement disposed therebetween.

16. In a horological device according to claim 15, including a pair ofbosses unitarily molded on said other plate and projecting from said oneplate, said bosses and said posts being correspondingly located aboutsaid plates.

17. In a horological device according to claim 15 including at least onedimple projecting from each of said post end portions to facilitatewelding the plates one to the other.

18. In a horological device according to claim 17 including a pair ofbosses unitarily molded on said other plate and projecting away fromsaid one plate, said bosses and said posts being correspondingly locatedabout said plates.

19. In a horological device according to claim 15 in combination withtime-indicating indicia carried by one of said plates on the sidethereof remote from the gear train and escapement, and bracket meansprojecting from said one plate for supporting said time indicia on saidmounting subassembly, said bracket means being unitarily formed on saidone plate.

20. An indicator comprising a timing device having a pair of mountingplates joined in spaced relation one from the other, a movement disposedbetween said mounting plates, an electrically actuated motor assemblycarried by one of said plates, time indicating means carried by one ofsaid plates and driven by said movement, a casing for said timingdevice, means mounting said timing device in said casing includingshock-absorbing means insulating said plates from said casing,electriflush with said first surface, said armature being pivotable incal terminals provided externally of said casing, means electricallyconnecting said terminals to said motor assembly including a pair ofsprings, locating means provided within said casing, said motor assemblyincluding a pair of contacts, and means on one of said plates cooperablewith said locating means to align said springs with said contacts onsaid motor assembly.

21. An indicator according to claim wherein said terminals have internalportions exposed within said casing and means for aligning one end ofeach of said springs with the associated internal terminal portions.

22. An indicator comprising a timing device having a pair of mountingplates joined in spaced relation one from the other, a movement disposedbetween said mounting plates, an electrically actuated motor assemblycarried by one of said plates, time indicating means carried by one ofsaid plates and driven by said movement, a casing for said timingdevice, means mounting said timing device in said casing includingshock-absorbing means insulating said plates from said casing,electrical terminals provided externally of said casing, meanselectrically connecting said terminals to said motor assembly includinga pair of springs, said casing being formed of a plastic material, saidcasing having an integrally molded boss projecting from one sidethereof, said terminals including flat metal strips molded integrallywith said boss and having an externally exposed portion, said bosshaving a pair of recesses opening within said casing and exposingrespective inner portions of said terminals to the interior of saidcasing, and the ends of said springs being received within associatedrecesses to engage and make electrical contact with said inner portionsof said terminals.

23. An indicator comprising a timing device having a pair of mountingplates joined in spaced relation one from the other, a movement disposedbetween said mounting plates, an electrically actuated motor assemblycarried by one of said plates, time indicating means carried by one ofsaid plates and driven by said movement, a casing for said timingdevice, means mounting said timing device in said casing includingshock-absorbing means insulating said plates from said casing,electrical terminals provided externally of said casing, meanselectrically connecting said terminals to said motor assembly includinga pair of springs, said casing being closed at one end and open at itsopposite end and having an internal shoulder intermediate its ends, saidterminals being located adjacent said closed end with said springsengaging at one end against said terminals and projecting inwardly ofsaid casing toward said open casing end, said motor assembly including apair of contacts, the opposite ends of said springs bearing against saidcontacts, said mounting means including a cushion disposed about one ofsaid plates and engaging against said shoulder, and means clamping saidcushion against said shoulder to retain said plates within said casingand including means closing the open end of said casing.

24. An elapsed-time indicator comprising a generally cylindricalhousing, a pair of mounting plates in spaced substantially parallelrelation one with the other and carried within said housing, said platesbeing disposed generally normal to the axis of said cylindrical housing,a timing device and drive assembly therefor including a movementcomprised of a gear train and an escapement disposed between said spacedplates, a flywheel pivotally mounted on the side of one of said platesremote from said movement, a counter mounted on the side of said oneplate remote from said movement and coupled to said gear train toindicate running time, means coupling said flywheel to one of the gearsof said gear train for driving said gear train and said counter inresponse to pivotal movement of said flywheel in one direction, saidcoupling means permitting relative rotation between said flywheel andsaid one gear in response to pivotal movement of said flywheel in theopposite direction, a mainspring connected at one end of said flywheelfor rotation therewith with the other end of said spring being fixed tosaid indicator, a motor assembly mounted on the side of said one plateremote from said movement for rotating said flywheel in the oppositedirection to wind said spring, said flywheel being pivo able m sald onedirection under the ras of said spring to drive said one gear throughsaid coupling and thereby drive said counter, wherein said plates aremolded of a plastic material, said plates having a plurality of openingsformed therein to receive the opposite ends of shafts forming parts ofsaid gear train and escapement, and a plurality of posts unitarilymolded on one of said plates and projecting therefrom toward the otherof said plates, and portions of said posts being welded to the other ofsaid plates joining the latter one to the other with the gear train andescapement disposed therebetween.

25. An elapsed-time indicator comprising a generally cylindricalhousing, a pair of mounting plates in spaced substantially parallelrelation one with the other and carried within said housing, said platesbeing disposed generally normal to the axis of said cylindrical housing,a timing device and drive assembly therefor including a movementcomprised of a gear train and an escapement disposed between said spacedplates, a flywheel pivotally mounted on the side of one of said platesremote from said movement, a counter mounted on the side of said oneplate remote from said movement and coupled to said gear train toindicate running time, means coupling said flywheel to one of the gearsof said gear train for driving said gear train and said counter inresponse to pivotal movement of said flywheel in one direction, saidcoupling means permitting relative rotation between said flywheel andsaid one gear in response to pivotal movement of said flywheel in theopposite direction, a mainspring connected at one end to the flywheelfor rotation therewith with the other end of said spring being fixed tosaid indicator, a motor assembly mounted on the side of said one plateremote from said movement for rotating said flywheel in the oppositedirection to wind said spring, said flywheel being pivotal in said onedirection under the bias of said spring to drive said one gear throughsaid coupling and thereby drive said counter, said counter carriesindicia bearing numbers indicative of elapsed time, means at one end ofsaid cylindrical housing for displaying said indicia, said motorassembly including a solenoid, terminals carried by said housingadjacent to the opposite end thereof, and means for electricallyconnecting said terminals and said solenoid, an annular shoulder formedinternally about said housing, an annular cushion engaging about one ofsaid plates and seating against said shoulder, and means retaining saidcushion against said shoulder, said electrical connecting meanscomprising a pair of springs.

26. An indicator according to claim 25 wherein said indicia bearingmembers include a plurality of wheels each carrying a plurality ofdigits, said coupling means including a counterdrive gear and a wormgear coupled to said gear train and in driving relation to saidcounterdrive gear.

27. An indicator according to claim 25 wherein said movement includes abalance wheel having a balance staff terminating at one end in a reduceddiameter stem forming an annular shoulder therewith, at least one ofsaid plates having an opening to receive said stem with said shoulderbearing against the annular marginal portion of said plate about saidopening.

UNITED sm'liise PATENT m mm CEPZPEFECJYEE Q CGRHECTION Pa'tent 3,635,011I Dated January 18, 1972 Inventor(s) Stuart M. Pindell, Jr. Donald J.Johnson, Robert E. Fickes, Malcolm R. Perry and Wayne K. Radcliffe It;is certified that error appears in the above-identified patent and thatsaid Letters Patent are hereby corrected as shown below:

In Col. 2, line 38, "nylon" should read --Nylon--.

In 0-01. 4, line 72, "Fig. l2" should read --Fig. 11--,.

In Col. 10, line 24', "one" should read --one end--.

In Col. 12, line 19, "means" should read "meaning- In Col. 12, line 46,Claim 1, "and" should read --an--.

In Col. 14, line 50, Claim 16, "from" should read --away from--.

In Col. 16, line 4, Claim 24, "of" should read --to-- Signed and sealedthis 11th day of July 1972 (SEAL) Attest:

EDWARD MQFLETGHER, JR, ROBERT GUL'PTSGHALK,

Attesting Officer Conmdseioner of Patents QRM eo-xoso (10-69) USCOMM-DC60376-969 U 5. GOVERNMENT PRIN ING OHICI' I969 O SEG-JJ UNITED sir/masPATENT ewmz CEPLFIFIQATE Q CQRIIEECIIQN Patent No. 3,635,011 DatedJanuary 18, 1972 Inventor(s) Stuart M. Pindell, Jr. Donald J. Johnson,Robert E. Fickes, Malcolm R. Perry and Wayne K. Radcliffe It; iscertified that error appears in the above-identified patent and thatsaid Letters Patent are hereby corrected as shown below:

In Col. 2, line 38, "nylon" should read --Nylon--.

In Col. 4, line 72; "Fig. l2"'should read --Fig. 11--,.

In Col. 10, line 24, "one" should read --one end--.

In Col. 12, line 19, "means" should read meaning- In Col. 12, line 46,Claim 1, "and" should read --an- In Col. 14, line 50, Claim 16, "from"should read away from-- In Col. 16, line 4, Claim 24, "of" should readto-- Signed and sealed this 11th day of July 1972.

(SEAL) Attest:

EDWAR D M .9 FLEET OH R, JR R0 [5 Ed I G01") TS G HAL K Attes'bingOfficer Commissioner of Patents FQRM Po-mso (10-69)- USCOMM-DC 60376-969U 5. GOVERNMENI PRINYINS (7H ICC I969 ()"Qfilrlli

1. An elapsed-time indicator comprising a housing, a pair of mountingplates in spaced substantially parallel relation one with the other andcarried within said housing, a timing device and drive assembly thereforincluding a movement comprised of a gear train and an escapementdisposed between said spaced plates, a flywheel pivotally mounted on theside of one of said plates remote from said movement, a counter mountedon said one plate side and coupled to said gear train to indicaterunning time, means coupling said flywheel to one of the gears of saidgear train for driving said gear train and said counter in response topivotal movement of said flywheel in one direction, said coupling meanspermitting relative rotation between said flywheel and said one gear inresponse to pivotal movement of said flywheel in the opposite direction,a mainspring connected at one end to said flywheel for rotationtherewith with the other end of said spring being fixed to saidindicator, a motor assembly mounted on said one plate side for rotatingsaid flywheel in the opposite direction to wind said spring, saidflywheel being pivotable in said one direction under the bias of saidspring to drive said one gear through said coupling and thereby drivesaid counter, said housing and said plates being cylindrical, means forshock mounting said plates within said housing including an annularshoulder formed internally about said housing, and annular cushionengaging about one of said plates and seating against said shoulder, andmeans retaining said cushion against said shoulder.
 2. An indicatoraccording to claim 1 wherein said motor assembly includes a solenoid,Said housing having a rear wall, a pair of terminals carried by saidrear wall externally of said housing, and means forming an electricalcircuit with said solenoid including a pair of springs extending withinsaid housing and electrically connecting with said terminals.
 3. Anelapsed-time indicator comprising a housing, a pair of mounting platesin spaced substantially parallel relation one with the other and carriedwithin said housing, a timing device and drive assembly thereforincluding a movement comprised of a gear train and an escapementdisposed between said spaced plates, a flywheel pivotally mounted on theside of one of said plates remote from said movement, a counter mountedon said one plate side and coupled to said gear train to indicaterunning time, means coupling said flywheel to one of the gears of saidgear train for driving said gear train and said counter in response topivotal movement of said flywheel in one direction, said coupling meanspermitting relative rotation between said flywheel and said one gear inresponse to pivotal movement of said flywheel in the opposite direction,a mainspring connected at one end to said flywheel for rotationtherewith with the other end of said spring being fixed to saidindicator, a motor assembly mounted on said one plate side for rotatingsaid flywheel in the opposite direction to wind said spring, saidflywheel being pivotable in said one direction under the bias of saidspring to drive said one gear through said coupling and thereby drivesaid counter, and said mainspring being helical and having an axissubstantially coincident with the axis of rotation of said flywheel. 4.An indicator according to claim 3 wherein said flywheel includes a hub,said coupling means including a shaft, a drive member carried by saidshaft for rotation therewith and a helically wound clutch springencompassing said hub and said drive member, said spring being arrangedsuch that the flywheel hub is drivingly connected with said drive memberto rotate said shaft in response to pivotal movement of said flywheel insaid opposite direction and is free for rotation relative to said drivemember in response to rotation of said flywheel in said one direction.5. In a horological device having an escapement controlling time indiciathrough a gear train, a drive assembly subcombination thereforcomprising a gear in driving relation to said gear train, a pivotallymounted flywheel, means coupling said flywheel to said gear for drivingsaid gear in response to pivotal movement of said flywheel in onedirection, said coupling means permitting relative rotation between saidgear and said flywheel in response to pivotal movement of said flywheelin the opposite direction, a helical spring having an axis substantiallycoincident with the axis of rotation of said flywheel, one end of saidspring bearing against said flywheel for rotation therewith, the otherend of said spring bearing against said device, and means for pivotingsaid flywheel in the opposite direction to wind said spring, saidflywheel being pivoted in said one direction under the bias of saidspring to drive said gear through said coupling means.
 6. In ahorological device according to claim 5 including a shaft carrying saidgear, said flywheel being mounted for rotation about said shaft, saidspring being helically wound about said shaft.
 7. In a horologicaldevice according to claim 6 wherein said flywheel includes a hub, saidcoupling means including a drive member carried by said shaft forrotation therewith and a helically wound clutch spring encompassing saidhub and said drive member, said spring being arranged such that theflywheel hub is drivingly connected with said drive member to rotatesaid shaft in response to pivotal movement of said flywheel in saidopposite direction and is free for rotation relative to said drivemember in response to rotation of said flywheel in said one direction.8. In a horological device according to claim 7 wherein said Pivotingmeans includes an electromagnet having an armature pivotable to impulsesaid flywheel for rotary movement in said opposite direction.
 9. In ahorological device according to claim 7 in combination with said timeindicia, said time indicia including a counter having a digital displayand a drive gear, said gear train including a worm gear in drivingrelation to said counter drive gear.
 10. An indicator according to claim3 wherein said motor assembly includes a coil, a magnetizable coresurrounded by said coil, means supporting one end of said core andincluding a frame portion projecting beyond the opposite end of saidcore, said frame portion having at least one slot, an armature pivotallymounted in said slot and having first and second portions, said firstportion lying on one side of said frame portion and overlying saidopposite core end, said second armature portion lying on the other sideof said frame portion, means retaining said armature on said frameportion, one of the edge portions of said slot lying substantiallyparallel to the axis of rotation of said armature in said frame portionhaving first and second angularly related surfaces, the first surface ofone edge portion extending from said one frame side to a pointintermediate the width of said frame portion, the second surface of saidone edge portion extending from adjacent the intermediate point to theother side of said one frame portion, a spring biasing said armatureinto a first position with the sides of said armature extending throughsaid slot lying substantially flush with said first surface, saidarmature being pivotable in response to actuation of the electromagnetinto a second position with the sides thereof extending through saidslot lying substantially flush with the second surface.
 11. An indicatoraccording to claim 10 wherein said retaining means includes a shoulderon said armature for bearing against said one frame portion side, saidspring connecting between said armature first portion and said frameportion biasing said shoulder against said frame portion.
 12. Anindicator according to claim 10 wherein each of the opposite edgeportions of said slot has first and second angularly related surfaces,the first surface of the other edge portion extending from a pointintermediate the width of said frame portion to the other side of saidone frame portion, said first surfaces lying substantially parallel oneto the other, the second surface of the other edge portion extendingfrom adjacent the associated intermediate point to the one side of saidother frame portion, said second surfaces lying substantially parallelone to the other, the sides of said armature in said first positionlying substantially flush with said first surfaces and in said secondposition lying substantially flush with said second surfaces.
 13. Anindicator according to claim 11 wherein said frame portion includes asubstantially T-shaped slot opening outwardly thereof, said armaturehaving an intermediate portion of reduced width for engaging within saidslot, said intermediate armature portion defining a pair of shouldersfor bearing against said one frame portion side.
 14. In the movement ofa horological device, a bearing assembly comprising a pair of spacedmounting plates, a balance wheel including a balance staff terminatingat one end in a reduced diameter stem forming an annular shouldertherewith, at least one of said plates having an opening to receive saidstem with said shoulder bearing against the annular marginal portion ofsaid one plate about said opening wherein said one plate is formed of aplastic material having a low coefficient of friction with a naturallubricant additive.
 15. In a horological device having a gear train andescapement, a mounting plate subassembly comprising a pair of mountingplates molded of a plastic material, said plates having a plurality ofopenings formed therein to receive the opposite ends of shafts formingparts of said gear traIn and escapement, and a plurality of postsunitarily molded on one of said plates and projecting therefrom towardthe other of said plates, end portions of said posts being welded to theother of said plates joining the latter one to the other with the geartrain and escapement disposed therebetween.
 16. In a horological deviceaccording to claim 15, including a pair of bosses unitarily molded onsaid other plate and projecting from said one plate, said bosses andsaid posts being correspondingly located about said plates.
 17. In ahorological device according to claim 15 including at least one dimpleprojecting from each of said post end portions to facilitate welding theplates one to the other.
 18. In a horological device according to claim17 including a pair of bosses unitarily molded on said other plate andprojecting away from said one plate, said bosses and said posts beingcorrespondingly located about said plates.
 19. In a horological deviceaccording to claim 15 in combination with time-indicating indiciacarried by one of said plates on the side thereof remote from the geartrain and escapement, and bracket means projecting from said one platefor supporting said time indicia on said mounting subassembly, saidbracket means being unitarily formed on said one plate.
 20. An indicatorcomprising a timing device having a pair of mounting plates joined inspaced relation one from the other, a movement disposed between saidmounting plates, an electrically actuated motor assembly carried by oneof said plates, time indicating means carried by one of said plates anddriven by said movement, a casing for said timing device, means mountingsaid timing device in said casing including shock-absorbing meansinsulating said plates from said casing, electrical terminals providedexternally of said casing, means electrically connecting said terminalsto said motor assembly including a pair of springs, locating meansprovided within said casing, said motor assembly including a pair ofcontacts, and means on one of said plates cooperable with said locatingmeans to align said springs with said contacts on said motor assembly.21. An indicator according to claim 20 wherein said terminals haveinternal portions exposed within said casing and means for aligning oneend of each of said springs with the associated internal terminalportions.
 22. An indicator comprising a timing device having a pair ofmounting plates joined in spaced relation one from the other, a movementdisposed between said mounting plates, an electrically actuated motorassembly carried by one of said plates, time indicating means carried byone of said plates and driven by said movement, a casing for said timingdevice, means mounting said timing device in said casing includingshock-absorbing means insulating said plates from said casing,electrical terminals provided externally of said casing, meanselectrically connecting said terminals to said motor assembly includinga pair of springs, said casing being formed of a plastic material, saidcasing having an integrally molded boss projecting from one sidethereof, said terminals including flat metal strips molded integrallywith said boss and having an externally exposed portion, said bosshaving a pair of recesses opening within said casing and exposingrespective inner portions of said terminals to the interior of saidcasing, and the ends of said springs being received within associatedrecesses to engage and make electrical contact with said inner portionsof said terminals.
 23. An indicator comprising a timing device having apair of mounting plates joined in spaced relation one from the other, amovement disposed between said mounting plates, an electrically actuatedmotor assembly carried by one of said plates, time indicating meanscarried by one of said plates and driven by said movement, a casing forsaid timing device, means mounting said timing device in said casingincluding shock-absorbing means insulating said plates from said casing,electrical terminals provided externally of said casing, meanselectrically connecting said terminals to said motor assembly includinga pair of springs, said casing being closed at one end and open at itsopposite end and having an internal shoulder intermediate its ends, saidterminals being located adjacent said closed end with said springsengaging at one end against said terminals and projecting inwardly ofsaid casing toward said open casing end, said motor assembly including apair of contacts, the opposite ends of said springs bearing against saidcontacts, said mounting means including a cushion disposed about one ofsaid plates and engaging against said shoulder, and means clamping saidcushion against said shoulder to retain said plates within said casingand including means closing the open end of said casing.
 24. Anelapsed-time indicator comprising a generally cylindrical housing, apair of mounting plates in spaced substantially parallel relation onewith the other and carried within said housing, said plates beingdisposed generally normal to the axis of said cylindrical housing, atiming device and drive assembly therefor including a movement comprisedof a gear train and an escapement disposed between said spaced plates, aflywheel pivotally mounted on the side of one of said plates remote fromsaid movement, a counter mounted on the side of said one plate remotefrom said movement and coupled to said gear train to indicate runningtime, means coupling said flywheel to one of the gears of said geartrain for driving said gear train and said counter in response topivotal movement of said flywheel in one direction, said coupling meanspermitting relative rotation between said flywheel and said one gear inresponse to pivotal movement of said flywheel in the opposite direction,a mainspring connected at one end of said flywheel for rotationtherewith with the other end of said spring being fixed to saidindicator, a motor assembly mounted on the side of said one plate remotefrom said movement for rotating said flywheel in the opposite directionto wind said spring, said flywheel being pivotable in said one directionunder the bias of said spring to drive said one gear through saidcoupling and thereby drive said counter, wherein said plates are moldedof a plastic material, said plates having a plurality of openings formedtherein to receive the opposite ends of shafts forming parts of saidgear train and escapement, and a plurality of posts unitarily molded onone of said plates and projecting therefrom toward the other of saidplates, and portions of said posts being welded to the other of saidplates joining the latter one to the other with the gear train andescapement disposed therebetween.
 25. An elapsed-time indicatorcomprising a generally cylindrical housing, a pair of mounting plates inspaced substantially parallel relation one with the other and carriedwithin said housing, said plates being disposed generally normal to theaxis of said cylindrical housing, a timing device and drive assemblytherefor including a movement comprised of a gear train and anescapement disposed between said spaced plates, a flywheel pivotallymounted on the side of one of said plates remote from said movement, acounter mounted on the side of said one plate remote from said movementand coupled to said gear train to indicate running time, means couplingsaid flywheel to one of the gears of said gear train for driving saidgear train and said counter in response to pivotal movement of saidflywheel in one direction, said coupling means permitting relativerotation between said flywheel and said one gear in response to pivotalmovement of said flywheel in the opposite direction, a mainspringconnected at one end to the flywheel for rotation therewith with theother end of said spring being fixed to said indicator, a motor assemblymounted on the side of said one plate remote from said movement forrotating said flywheel in the opposite direction to wInd said spring,said flywheel being pivotal in said one direction under the bias of saidspring to drive said one gear through said coupling and thereby drivesaid counter, said counter carries indicia bearing numbers indicative ofelapsed time, means at one end of said cylindrical housing fordisplaying said indicia, said motor assembly including a solenoid,terminals carried by said housing adjacent to the opposite end thereof,and means for electrically connecting said terminals and said solenoid,an annular shoulder formed internally about said housing, an annularcushion engaging about one of said plates and seating against saidshoulder, and means retaining said cushion against said shoulder, saidelectrical connecting means comprising a pair of springs.
 26. Anindicator according to claim 25 wherein said indicia bearing membersinclude a plurality of wheels each carrying a plurality of digits, saidcoupling means including a counterdrive gear and a worm gear coupled tosaid gear train and in driving relation to said counterdrive gear. 27.An indicator according to claim 25 wherein said movement includes abalance wheel having a balance staff terminating at one end in a reduceddiameter stem forming an annular shoulder therewith, at least one ofsaid plates having an opening to receive said stem with said shoulderbearing against the annular marginal portion of said plate about saidopening.